Muscle and joint pain are common reasons to see a physical therapist. Did you know that physical therapists can treat vertigo? How about concussions? As medical knowledge and technology advances, the number of ways a symptom can be treated also increases. Check out these surprising symptoms that physical therapists can treat.

Vertigo

Although there are many reasons why someone experiences vertigo, or dizziness, one common reason lies in the inner ear. Calcium crystals called otoconia collect in the inner ear and somehow give the brain wrong messages about your spacial position, thus creating a spinning sensation. A physical therapist can dislodge the otoconia with a simple forceful movement. One treatment and the vertigo problem is fixed!

Concussion

Therapists specially trained to manage concussions learn how to assess which part of the body a concussion has disrupted. It could be the cervical spine or the vestibular system. When the correct system is treated with manual therapy or stretching and strengthening, then the symptoms of the concussion, which are often mysterious symptoms like nausea, grogginess, and confusion, will also be treated.

Jaw Issues

Clenching your jaw when you sleep can lead to tight, sore muscles and even headaches. Some physical therapists can do soft tissue work to alleviate the pain and get those jaw muscles working better so the dentist can treat the issue more effectively.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Pelvic floor muscles don't always function correctly, leading to urination pain, painful sex, or erectile dysfunction. Physical therapists can teach you how to stretch and exercise those muscles to help fix the problem.

Headaches

What causes a tension headache? Usually tension in the muscles around the face and neck. A physical therapist can assess your neck and posture to find the muscles that need releasing or the weakness that needs strengthening. This type of therapy can lessen the intensity of the headaches and even get rid of them completely!

Learn more about these unusual physical therapy treatments on Men's Health. If you are interested in a career in physical therapy, please check out our job listings and contact us for more information.

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